Jurisdiction(s):
United Kingdom

Related legal acts

Key definition

Variations definition

What does Variations mean? Variations are changes to the agreed works under a construction contract, instructed through the contract mechanism to alter scope, quantity, quality, design, sequence or timing. They are ordered by the employer’s contract administrator, project manager or engineer. The term is not defined by statute; its meaning stems from standard forms and case law across the UK and Ireland. A valid variation must be instructed in accordance with the contract (often in writing) and remain within the general scope of the original works; a fundamental or “cardinal” change may fall outside the contract. Variations can add to, omit from, or change...

Construction contract claims and disputes: defects, design liability, delay and LADs, variations, extensions of time, loss and expense, non-payment, negligence and dispute resolution

Published by a LexisNexis Construction expert

Practice notes

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The characteristics of construction projects, their contracts and the surrounding legal framework mean that parties frequently pursue claims. This Practice Note points to the issues construction practitioners most often face, including defects, requests for extra time to finish the works (or employer claims for late completion), Variations and payment. Less typical claims, which are not addressed here, can include Copyright Infringement, nuisance, Trespass and health and safety matters...

Claims against contractors and consultants

Employers may bring claims against one or more members of the construction team during the project or after completion. Common allegations, outlined below, include:

Defects in the works or design shortcomings
Delay in completing the works

Third parties may also have recourse against the construction team. For instance, if a scheme is sold following completion, purchasers or tenants may take an assignment of rights under the construction contract, be given a collateral warranty, or benefit from third party rights. Should defects emerge after completion, such third parties might then bring a...

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Web page updated on 21/05/2026

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